By understanding how interdependence works in our mind, we see in sequence how one thing produces another through the twelve links of causation.

Video thanks to the Meridian Trust.

A SUMMARY
by Maggy Jones

The idea that all beings, all forms, are interdependent is key to Buddhist philosophy, There is no one single creator; nothing is one single entity – everything is totally interdependent. Our problems arise because we do not realise or accept it and are always controlled by our emotions. Buddha taught us how to recognize this cycle and how to escape. When the conditions come together people are born, and will therefore age. Our habits, pattern of actions and reactions, affect our karma and our next lives. If you nurture a state of mind you can affect your future. Different scholars such as Nagarjuna, Vasubandhu have different interpretations. Rinpoche discusses briefly.

Rinpoche explains collective nouns – how there is no such thing as “Forest” and breaks this down until there is nothing. He analyses the 6 Skandhas (aggregates) (Link 4) and the 5 Ayatanas (sense perceptions) (Link 5) and how these dictate our life and our re-birth. If you understand that you too do not exist independently, and that your reactions are constantly flowing, moving – you are free. Your consciousness is there but you will not find it; it is your mind. When you have this understanding you will be free from the samsaric cycle.   Q & A

For detailed information on Dependent Origination and the Twelve links see https://www.rigpawiki.org/index.php?title=Dependent_origination

For more information, visit: http://www.london.samye.org/